In which topology are all nodes connected to a single central cable or link?

In the context of networking topologies, the correct choice is bus topology, where all nodes share a single central cable or transmission medium. In this configuration, devices are connected along the same cable, which serves as a backbone for data transmission. Each device taps into the main cable to send and receive data, making it a straightforward and cost-effective design.

Bus topology is particularly effective for small networks because it requires less cable than other topologies, leading to reduced costs and simpler installation processes. However, it's important to note that the performance can degrade as more devices are added due to increased data traffic on the central cable. Additionally, if the main cable experiences damage or failure, the entire network can go down.

In contrast, star topology connects all nodes to a central hub or switch, allowing for better performance and isolation, as a failure in one connection does not affect the rest of the network. Mesh topology consists of each node being interconnected, providing redundancy and robustness but at a higher cost and complexity. Tree topology combines characteristics of star and bus topologies, forming a hierarchical structure with multiple levels of nodes.